FedRAMP

FedRAMP is the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program. It was created to ensure the security of cloud services and solutions used by U.S. government agencies. Any cloud service or solution provider must obtain authorization and comply with FedRAMP requirements if they collect, maintain, process, disseminate, or dispose of any federal information. 

A federal government cybersecurity framework, FedRAMP provides a standardized approach to assessments, authorizations, and continuous monitoring of cloud services and solutions to ensure they meet security standards. Among the other goals of FedRAMP are to: 

• Achieve consistent federal security authorizations based on agreed-upon standards for cloud service and solution authorizations.  
• Eliminate duplication efforts and reduce risk management costs related to federal agencies’ procurement of cloud services and solutions. 
• Ensure consistent application of cloud security practices across all services and solutions used by federal agencies. 
• Expedite the deployment of secure cloud solutions throughout the federal government with reusable assessments and authorizations. 
• Improve confidence in the security of cloud solutions and security assessments. 
• Increase automation and use of near-real-time data for continuous monitoring. 

As part of its efforts to facilitate the authorization of cloud providers, FedRAMP defines and manages a core set of processes to ensure effective, repeatable security for cloud services and solutions used by federal agencies. 

These FedRAMP guidelines, which are regularly updated, help cloud services and solutions providers rapidly make changes to meet current requirements. 

FedRAMP also established a marketplace to increase access to authorized cloud services. The FedRAMP Marketplace also provides a hub to support collaboration across federal agencies. In addition, it supports the open exchange of lessons learned, use cases, and tactical solutions for cloud security. 

FedRAMP program basics

Key FedRAMP acronyms

To understand FedRAMP, it is also necessary to understand the meaning of the following key FedRAMP acronyms and their roles in the authorization process. 

• PMO (FedRAMP Program Management Office)
  The FedRAMP Program Management Office (PMO) oversees FedRAMP applications, authorizations, and continuous monitoring. It is managed by the General Services Administration (GSA).
• 3PAO (FedRAMP Third Party Assessment Organization)
  A FedRAMP third-party assessment organization (3PAO) is an independent third party that assesses the security of a cloud provider’s services and solutions for risk. 3APOs are accredited through the FedRAMP 3PAO program for JAB P-ATO (Joint Authorization Board Provisional Authorization to Operate).
  
  To secure accreditation, 3PAOs must demonstrate independence and the technical competence to test and document a cloud provider’s security implementations. Once authorized and accredited, 3PAOs are included in the FedRAMP Marketplace.
• JAB (FedRAMP Joint Authorization Board)
  FedRAMP is controlled by a Joint Authorization Board (JAB). It includes the chief information officers and other representatives from:
  • Department of Defense (DoD) 
  • Department of Homeland Security (DHS) 
  • General Services Administration (GSA) 
  • FedRAMP Authority to Operate (ATO)
    A FedRAMP authority to operate (ATO) is a formal declaration by an agency authorizing the use of a cloud provider’s services or solutions. This declaration includes the acceptance of any risk by the agency. Cloud providers work directly with the agency’s security office and an Authorizing Official (AO) to obtain an ATO.
• P-ATO (FedRAMP Provisional Authority to Operate)
  For a FedRAMP provisional authority to operate (ATO) P-ATO, the JAB provides a risk review of the cloud provider’s security authorization package. FedRAMP-ATO is achieved after assessment and approval by the JAB. It is a more stringent process only available after a cloud provider has achieved several individual agency ATOs.
  
  Then, an accredited 3PAO independently tests, verifies, and validates the cloud provider’s security assessment package. If it passes, then the JAP can grant a P-ATO that includes details about the impact levels for which the cloud provider’s risk posture are acceptable.
• SSP (FedRAMP System Security Plan)
  A FedRAMP System Security Plan (SSP) is a report created by a cloud provider that outlines their existing infrastructure and the security controls and measures the gaps they must address to meet their desired ATO.
• CIS (FedRAMP Control Implementation Summary)
  A FedRAMP Control Implementation Summary (CIS) is documentation developed by a cloud provider that outlines the security responsibilities it would assume for the agency.
• SAP (Security Assessment Plan)
  The cloud provider and a 3PAO prepare a Security Assessment Plan (SAP). Based on the SSP, the SAP details all procedures, methodologies, and tests used as part of the 3PAO’s audit.
• SAR (Security Assessment Report)
  A 3PAO uses a Security Assessment Report (SAR) to present its audit results. The SAR details what was tested, what was not, what controls met compliance requirements, and what failed to do so. Also included in a SAR report are recommended remediation steps.
• POA&M (FedRAMP Plan of Action and Milestones)
  A FedRAMP Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M) outlines the specific security controls required for cloud services and solutions, the schedule for implementing them, and the milestones that will be used to measure progress. It tracks and reports on the progress of a cloud provider’s implementation of required security controls.  
  
  The POAM is also used to track any issues that arise during the certification process and to document the resolution of those issues. POAM management is critical for any cloud provider that is seeking FedRAMP certification. 

What are the primary entities of FedRAMP?

FedRAMP involves multiple entities that play specific roles in the process of securing cloud services for federal government use. Each entity has distinct responsibilities that support the program’s processes to ensure that cloud services used by the federal government are secure and comply with high standards of cybersecurity, maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of federal data. The primary entities involved in FedRAMP are as follows.

Cloud service providers (CSPs)
CSPs offer cloud services to federal agencies and are required to prove that their services meet FedRAMP requirements for security and compliance. They are responsible for implementing the FedRAMP security controls, undergoing the necessary authorizations, and maintaining compliance through continuous monitoring. This includes preparing a comprehensive package of documentation that details their compliance with the FedRAMP controls and undergoing an extensive third-party assessment.
U.S. federal agencies
Within the context of FedRAMP, federal agencies are the consumers of cloud services. They are responsible for selecting authorized cloud services that meet their specific needs. While they can leverage the security assessments and authorizations provided through FedRAMP, each agency also has the responsibility to grant an Authority to Operate (ATO) for a cloud service within their specific operation context to confirm that it aligns with their agency’s particular security requirements and risk posture.
Program Management Office (PMO)
The FedRAMP PMO resides within the General Services Administration (GSA) and oversees the program’s day-to-day operations. The PMO provides guidance, support, and training to agencies and CSPs, as well as manages the accreditation of 3PAOs and monitors the overall performance and compliance with FedRAMP. 
Third-Party Assessment Organizations (3PAOs)
3PAOs are independent organizations certified by the FedRAMP PMO to perform initial and periodic assessments of cloud services. These assessments include a review of a CSP’s security implementations and controls against the FedRAMP requirements. The report produced by 3PAOs is a critical part of the decision-making process for granting a CSP FedRAMP authorization.
Joint Authorization Board (JAB)
The JAB is comprised of chief information officers from the Department of Homeland Security, the General Services Administration, and the Department of Defense. It acts as a primary governance and decision-making body for FedRAMP.  

Can a cloud service provider be sponsored for FedRAMP authorization?

Yes, a cloud service provider (CSP) can indeed be sponsored for FedRAMP authorization. In the FedRAMP sponsorship model, a federal agency takes on the role of the sponsor for the CSP’s service offering, supporting its progression through the FedRAMP authorization process. Sponsorship offers an alternative to achieving FedRAMP authorization through a P-ATO from the JAB.

Sponsorship is beneficial as it provides the CSP with guidance and support throughout the FedRAMP authorization process. For federal agencies, sponsoring a CSP allows them to tailor the cloud service to their specific needs and ensure it meets the rigorous security standards required by FedRAMP.

The steps to gain FedRAMP authorization through sponsorship are:

1. Sponsorship initiation
   The process begins when a federal agency agrees to act as a sponsor. This agency must use, or plan to use, the cloud service and is willing to shepherd the CSP through the FedRAMP authorization process.
2. Assessment and authorization
   With a sponsoring agency in place, the CSP prepares the necessary documentation and undergoes a security assessment conducted by a FedRAMP-accredited 3PAO. The assessment evaluates the CSP’s compliance with FedRAMP’s security requirements.
3. Agency Authorization to Operate (ATO)
   Upon successful completion of the assessment and remediation of any identified issues, the sponsoring agency issues an ATO)for the cloud service. Unlike a P-ATO, this ATO is specific to the sponsoring agency.
4. FedRAMP PMO review
   Following the issuance of an ATO by the sponsoring agency, the CSP’s FedRAMP package is submitted to the PMO for review. The PMO evaluates the package to ensure it meets all FedRAMP standards and requirements.
5. FedRAMP authorization
   Once the FedRAMP PMO concludes that the CSP has met all requirements, the cloud service is granted FedRAMP authorization, making it eligible for use by other federal agencies.

What does the FedRAMP PMO do?

Compliance and quality control
The PMO monitors the performance and compliance of CSPs, 3PAOs, and federal agencies with FedRAMP standards. It ensures quality control throughout the lifecycle of cloud service deployments and manages the resolution of any issues that arise.
Continuous monitoring
The FedRAMP PMO manages the continuous monitoring program, which requires CSPs to provide regular security reports and undergo periodic reassessments to maintain their authorization. This ensures that authorized cloud services maintain compliance with FedRAMP requirements over time.
Facilitation and coordination
The PMO acts as the central communication hub between CSPs, 3PAOs, and federal agencies. It facilitates the authorization process by coordinating assessments, clarifying requirements, and ensuring all parties’ objectives are aligned.
Governance and oversight
The PMO governs the entire FedRAMP process, verifying that CSPs meet strict security standards before they are granted a P-ATO. This includes overseeing the assessment process, continuous monitoring, and reauthorization processes.
Guidance and support
The FedRAMP PMO provides guidance, support, and resources to CSPs, 3PAOs, and federal agencies throughout the FedRAMP authorization process. This includes clarifying requirements, offering training sessions, and developing templates and documentation to facilitate and streamline the process.
Management of the authorization process
The PMO oversees the authorization process for CSPs, including the review of security packages and the coordination of efforts between CSPs, 3PAOs, and the JAB. It ensures that the security assessments and authorizations are conducted efficiently and effectively.
Policy and strategy development
The PMO contributes to the development and updating of FedRAMP policies, procedures, and strategies to support its evolution in response to changes in technology, cyber threats, and federal needs.
Promotion and advocacy
The PMO actively promotes the adoption of FedRAMP by federal agencies and the engagement of authorized CSPs. It shares information about the benefits of cloud computing for government agencies, as well as program updates and security best practices. The PMO also engages with stakeholders, including policymakers, industry leaders, and other governmental bodies, to gather feedback, discuss challenges, and evolve the FedRAMP program in response to new technological developments and security threats.
Standardization of security assessments
The PMO develops and maintains standardized security assessment processes that CSPs use to ensure that all cloud services used by federal agencies have consistent and reliable security postures.
Standards development
The PMO is responsible for developing, maintaining, and updating the FedRAMP requirements and standards. This includes security controls, policies, and procedures that CSPs must adhere to as part of their authorization.
Training and guidance
The PMO offers training sessions, webinars, and detailed guidance documents to help CSPs, 3PAOs, and federal agencies understand the FedRAMP process and requirements.

FedRAMP governance bodies

FedRAMP is governed by several executive branch entities that work collaboratively to develop, manage, and operate the program. FedRAMP governing bodies include: 

• CIO Council: Disseminates FedRAMP information to federal CIOs and other agency representatives through cross-agency channels and events. 
• Department of Homeland Security (DHS): Manages the continuous monitoring strategy for FedRAMP. This includes maintaining data feed criteria, reporting structure, threat notification coordination, and incident response plans. 
• FedRAMP Program Management Office (PMO): Manages the day-to-day operations of the FedRAMP program and its continuing development. 
• Joint Authorization Board (JAB): The FedRAMP program’s primary governance and decision-making body.   
• National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST): Provides advice to the FedRAMP program related to Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) compliance requirements. NIST also assists in developing the standards for the accreditation of independent third-party assessment organizations (3PAOs). 
• Office of Management and Budget (OMB): Issued the FedRAMP policy memo. The OMB defines new requirements and capabilities for the program in conjunction with the other governing bodies. 

Who are the members of the Joint Authorization Board (JAB)?

The Joint Authorization Board (JAB) is made up of Chief Information Officers (CIOs) or their designated representatives from three key U.S. federal agencies. The members of the JAB focus on enhancing cloud security across the federal government with rigorous review and authorization processes. While the specific individuals in these positions can change, their roles as part of the JAB remain constant. The three agencies represented on the JAB and their unique roles are as follows.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

• Cybersecurity leadership
  Contributes to the strategic direction of FedRAMP by advising on cybersecurity best practices and policies that align with national security interests.
• Incident response and coordination
  Focuses on coordination, oversight, and direct support to ensure that incidents involving cloud service providers are managed effectively and that the impact on federal data and systems is minimized.
• Risk assessment and security oversight
  Evaluates potential threats and ensures that cloud service providers (CSPs) have robust measures to mitigate these risks.

The General Services Administration (GSA)

• Administrative and operational support
  Oversees the administration and day-to-day operation of FedRAMP, including managing the application process for CSPs and facilitating their interactions with the JAB.
• Policy development and implementation
  Helps develop and refine FedRAMP policies and ensures they are implemented effectively across government agencies.
• Promotion and education
  Promotes FedRAMP to federal agencies and provides educational resources to help both providers and agencies understand and comply with FedRAMP requirements.

The Department of Defense (DoD)

• Defense-specific security concerns
  Focuses on how cloud services can meet the stringent security requirements necessary for defense-related applications.
• Provisional authorizations
  Grants Provisional Authorizations to Operate (P-ATO), ensuring that services used by the defense sector are secure and compliant with FedRAMP standards.
• Technical expertise
  Contributes technical guidance on securing cloud environments against sophisticated cyber threats.

What is the role of the JAB within FedRAMP?

The Joint Authorization Board (JAB) serves as the primary governance and authorization body for FedRAMP. Its responsibilities are centered around ensuring that cloud service providers (CSPs) meet the stringent security requirements necessary for federal agencies. The key roles and functions of the JAB are as follows.

Continuous monitoring
Beyond initial authorization, the JAB is involved in overseeing the continuous monitoring requirements of CSPs that have been granted a P-ATO. This ensures that CSPs maintain compliance with FedRAMP requirements and that any changes or updates to their services adhere to the security standards and adapt to new and evolving threats and vulnerabilities.
Enhancing federal cloud security
The JAB standardizes approaches to security for cloud services and provides direction for CSPs to demonstrate their compliance. This enhances the overall security posture of cloud computing across the federal government.
Governance and oversight
The JAB provides overall governance and oversight of FedRAMP. This includes providing expert guidance on cloud security best practices and policies, as well as coordinating efforts between the FedRAMP Program Management Office (PMO), CSPs, Third-Party Assessment Organizations (3PAOs), and federal agencies. 
Promoting consistency across agencies
The JAB helps ensure consistency and reliability in the security of cloud services used across all federal agencies with a standardized approach to assessments and authorizations. This centralized approach reduces redundancy, saves time, and bolsters confidence in the security of cloud solutions adopted by the government.
Provisional authorizations
The JAB provides provisional Authorizations to Operate (P-ATOs) for CSPs. A P-ATO indicates that a cloud service offering has undergone a rigorous assessment and meets the comprehensive security requirements set by FedRAMP. This provisional authorization serves as a stamp of approval that federal agencies can trust when selecting cloud services. However, each agency is still responsible for granting its own ATO based on its specific risk posture.
Security assessments
The JAB reviews and assesses security packages submitted by CSPs. These packages include detailed information about the security controls the CSP has implemented. The assessment process by the JAB is rigorous and ensures that only those cloud services that meet a high standard of security receive a P-ATO.
Setting standards and policies
The JAB defines the standards, policies, and processes for FedRAMP. This includes outlining the security controls that CSPs must adhere to, including the requirements for security assessments, continuous monitoring, and incident response.

Three types of FedRAMP authorization

1. Authority to operate (ATO) 
2. Provisional authority to operate (P-ATO)  
3. Tailored authorization 

Three FedRAMP security baseline levels

1. High 
2. Moderate 
3. Low 

The FedRAMP authorization process

There are two ways to demonstrate FedRAMP compliance and obtain a FedRAMP authorization. The first path is to get a FedRAMP authorization to operate directly from a federal agency. The second is to receive a FedRAMP provisional authorization to operate (P-ATO) from the Joint Authorization Board (JAB). The authorization process always involves four main steps, regardless of which method is pursued.  

1. Document

The FedRAMP authorization process begins with the cloud provider documenting the implementation of security controls and categorizing their cloud services and solutions per FIPS 199. This categorization (e.g., Low, Moderate, High, or FedRAMP Tailored) will determine the required controls.  

Next, the cloud provider must complete a system security plan and develop a security assessment plan by a FedRAMP-approved third-party assessment organization (3PAO). The System Security Plan (SSP) is then created. This is a roadmap for how the required controls will be implemented.  

Additional documents required for the FedRAMP authorization process include a contingency plan, an incident response plan, and configuration management. 

2. Assess

The assessment phase can begin once the SSP and other required documentation have been completed, reviewed, and approved. During this phase of FedRAMP authorization, a 3PAO will develop a security assessment plan (SAP). The SAP outlines the testing approach for the cloud service or solution.  

After the SAP is approved, the 3PAO tests the implementation of the controls on a production-ready system and develops a security assessment report (SAR). It is important to note that the security assessment must be performed on a production-ready system. Assessments cannot be performed on a test or development system.  

Then, the cloud provider develops a Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M), which details corrective actions that will be taken to address gaps and security weaknesses. 

3. Authorize

During this phase, the federal agency reviews the SAR for authorization. If the requirements are met, the cloud provider will be approved, and the agency will issue the ATO letter.  

Note that sometimes, federal agencies require additional testing before approving the SAR. For an ATO, the FedRAMP Program Management Office (PMO) decides the FedRAMP authorization based on a review of the SAR and related documentation. For P-ATO, the package is reviewed by the JAB. Upon approval by the PMO or JAB, the cloud provider is authorized to work with federal agencies. 

4. Monitor

Once an initial agency ATO or JAB P-ATO has been obtained, the cloud provider begins the continuous monitoring phase. During this phase, the cloud provider ensures that the required continues operating appropriately. Depending on the controls, monitoring occurs continuously, monthly, or annually. Reports based on monitoring the controls are sent to the authorizing agency to show continued FedRAMP compliance. 

Why FedRAMP is important

Beyond being a requirement for any cloud provider wishing to work with federal agencies, FedRAMP is important because it ensures consistency in evaluating and monitoring the security of cloud services and solutions. The results include significantly improved: 

• Cost-saving
  FedRAMP eliminates the need for multiple levels of security review for each cloud service provider.
• Efficiency
  FedRAMP reduces the time and effort required to set up and maintain cloud-based services.
• Risk management
  FedRAMP compliance requires authorized organizations to identify, assess, and manage risks proactively.
• Security
  FedRAMP compliance requires organizations to implement proscribed security controls based on their impact level.

Requirements for FedRAMP compliance

FedRAMP compliance requires cloud services and solutions to meet the specific security levels based on their use and the types of information they process and store. Below are the minimum requirements to achieve FedRAMP compliance: 

• Complete FedRAMP documentation, including the FedRAMP System Security Plan (SSP) 
• Implement controls in the appropriate impact level 
• Undergo an assessment by a FedRAMP Third Party Assessment Organization (3PAO) 
• Remediate any gaps found during the 3PAO assessment 
• Develop the Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M) report 
• Obtain Agency ATO or Joint Authorization Board (JAB) Provisional ATO (P-ATO) 
• Implement a Continuous Monitoring (ConMon) program to include monthly vulnerability scans 

Types of FedRAMP compliance

The FedRAMP program details three categories of compliance: 

1. Security compliance 
   Covers authentication and authorization, access control, encryption, and incident response
2. Operations compliance
   Covers system availability and performance, software patching, monitoring, and backups
3. Documentation compliance
   Covers system and service documentation, data flow diagrams, and authorization packages

FedRAMP compliance is based on different kinds of risk in three distinct areas: Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability, commonly referred to as the CIA triad. This standard model forms the basis for developing security systems. 

• Confidentiality
  Protections for personal and proprietary information 
• Integrity
  Protections against modification or destruction of information 
• Availability
  Timely and reliable access to data

The four FedRAMP impact levels are: 

1. High Impact Level
   FedRAMP High includes about 425 cybersecurity controls. Organizations that qualify for FedRAMP High are primarily in law enforcement, emergency services, financial services, and healthcare systems. For these organizations, the loss of confidentiality, integrity, or availability could be expected to have a severe or catastrophic adverse effect on organizational operations, organizational assets, or individuals.    
2. Moderate Impact Level 
   FedRAMP Moderate is based on about 325 controls. About 80% of FedRAMP-authorized organizations are at the Moderate impact level. For these organizations, the loss of confidentiality, integrity, or availability could seriously affect organizational operations, assets, or individuals. Nearly 80 percent of approved FedRAMP applications are at the moderate impact level.
3. Low Impact Level
   FedRAMP Low includes about 125 controls. For organizations that qualify for FedRAMP Low, the loss of confidentiality, integrity, or availability could be expected to have a limited adverse effect on organizational operations, assets, or individuals.
4. Low Impact SaaS (FedRAMP Tailored or Ll-SaaS)
   FedRAMP Tailored is a subset of low impact that includes about 36 controls. This impact level is for SaaS applications that do not store personally identifiable information beyond basic log-in information (e.g., usernames and passwords). FedRAMP Tailored-level organizations have low-risk systems, such as collaboration tools, project management applications, and tools that help develop open-source code.

FedRAMP vs. The Risk Management Framework (RMF)

FedRAMP is the program that authorizes cloud providers’ services and solutions for use by public agencies. The Risk Management Framework (RMF) is part of NIST SP 800-37, which federal agencies must follow to have their IT system authorized to operate.

The FedRAMP security assessment framework (SAF), which helps to standardize the security assessment, authorization, and monitoring of cloud products and services, is based on the NIST SP 800-37 RMF and includes some control enhancements relevant to cloud security that NIST 800-37 does not. 

FedRAMP process areas vs. NIST SP 800-37 RMF process areas

FedRAMP	NIST SP 800-37
Document  Assess  Authorize  Monitor	Categorize  Select  Implement  Assess  Authorize  Monitor

FedRAMP and other federal compliance programs

FedRAMP draws its requirements from several other federal compliance programs. Below are examples of what FedRAMP incorporates from other federal compliance programs. 

• Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 140-2
  FedRAMP pulls from FIPS 140-2 the requirements for federal agencies and contractors when implementing cryptographic modules and encrypting data.
• Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 199
  From FIPS 199, FedRAMP uses the security impact levels, and associated requirements, for security, privacy, and risk management.
• NIST Special Publication 800-37
  NIST SP 800-37’s Risk Management Framework (RMF) provides the regulations used by FedRAMP to direct how organizations implement risk assessment and management controls. 
• NIST Special Publication 800-53
  NIST SP 800-53 provides the security controls that FedRAMP requires organizations to implement to properly secure their systems. 

FedRAMP FAQ

Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions about FedRAMP.

What is the purpose of FedRAMP?

The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) focuses on improving the efficiency of the government’s move to cloud technologies and the security of the data within the cloud. Several core practices, including the following, support these efforts.

Enhance cloud security
FedRAMP provides a comprehensive framework that includes a baseline set of minimum security standards that cloud service providers (CSPs) must meet to work with the federal government. This ensures that federal data is securely stored, processed, and managed in cloud environments, mitigating the potential risks associated with cloud computing.
Establish compliance requirements for cloud service providers
FedRAMP sets security standards for all cloud service providers who do business with federal agencies.
Facilitate the adoption of secure cloud services
FedRAMP facilitates the adoption of cloud services by federal agencies by simplifying their decision-making process and increasing their confidence in the security of cloud solutions. 
Promote reciprocity
Once a cloud service provider achieves FedRAMP authorization, that certification is recognized across all federal agencies, eliminating the need for each agency to give repetitive authorizations. This cuts costs, saves time for both cloud service providers and federal agencies and accelerates the government’s transition to cloud computing.
Standardize adoption practices
FedRAMP standardizes security requirements for all federal agencies adopting cloud services to ensure that cloud security is consistent across the federal government. This uniformity helps mitigate risk throughout the federal IT ecosystem by enforcing minimum standards for cybersecurity, data protection, and data privacy.

What is FedRAMP equivalent to?

FedRAMP does not have a direct equivalent. It was established to meet the unique requirements of the U.S. federal government when interacting with cloud service providers. However, FedRAMP leverages the foundational principles of risk management and information security, applying them to the standardization and enhancement of cloud security. The following are several standards that have significant representation in FedRAMP.

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)
CMMC was created for contractors and sub-contractors to the Department of Defense. However, its principles have been widely adopted by a number of standards, including FedRAMP, to ensure the protection of sensitive information. Both CMMC and FedRAMP share requirements for access controls, audit and accountability, incident response protocols, and risk assessments. 
ISO/IEC 27001
A global standard, ISO/IEC 27001, details best practices for information security. It is designed to be applicable to any organization, not just those serving government clients. FedRAMP draws on the ISO/IEC 27001 guidance on risk management and continuous monitoring to enhance security for cloud services. Several common requirements for FedRAMP and ISO/IEC 27001 are audit and accountability, data encryption, employee security awareness training, and physical and environmental security.
NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF)
The NIST RMF provides a detailed framework that offers guidance on how to integrate security, privacy, and risk management for IT systems throughout their lifecycles. FedRAMP builds on the NIST RMF by applying its principles specifically to the authorization of cloud services for federal use. Parts of the NIST RMF have been customized to provide guidance on how to address challenges that are unique to cloud computing. Overlapping principles between NIST RMF and FedRAMP include authorization processes, continuous monitoring, and a risk-based approach.

Is FedRAMP the same as NIST?

FedRAMP is not the same as NIST. While they are related in terms of their focus on security standards and frameworks, they serve different purposes and operate within distinct contexts. FedRAMP can be seen as an application of NIST’s broader guidelines for cloud services for federal agencies.

NIST provides the foundational frameworks and guidelines from which FedRAMP derives some of its specific requirements for cloud security within the U.S. federal government. FedRAMP builds directly upon NIST’s frameworks, such as NIST SP 800-53, adapting these standards to the specific needs of cloud security and the unique risks associated with cloud computing environments.

Specifically, the security controls required by FedRAMP are selected from the NIST Special Publication 800-53 but are tailored for the cloud environment. FedRAMP incorporates additional controls or guidance where necessary for cloud-specific security issues.

Where does the FedRAMP PMO reside?

The FedRAMP Program Management Office (PMO) resides within the General Services Administration (GSA). The GSA is a U.S. government agency established to support the basic functioning of federal agencies by managing government buildings, procuring products and services, and providing IT and communication support. The FedRAMP PMO operates under the auspices of the GSA, leveraging its position to coordinate and oversee the implementation of FedRAMP across various cloud service providers (CSPs), government agencies, and other stakeholders involved in the adoption of cloud services within the federal government.

How much does it cost to get FedRAMP certified?

The cost to achieve FedRAMP certification, more commonly referred to as FedRAMP authorization, varies widely depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the cloud service provider’s (CSP) environment, the level of FedRAMP authorization being sought (e.g., FedRAMP Tailored, FedRAMP Moderate, or FedRAMP High), and whether the CSP is pursuing a Joint Authorization Board (JAB) Provisional Authority to Operate (P-ATO) or an Agency ATO through sponsorship.

Below is a breakdown of the primary cost components involved in the FedRAMP certification process.

• Costs related to preparing for the FedRAMP authorization process, including
  • Consultancy fees, if a CSP engages external consultants to help understand FedRAMP requirements and prepare necessary documentation
  • Internal labor costs
  • Potential upgrades to systems to meet FedRAMP security controls
• Third-Party Assessment Organization (3PAO) costs
• Remediation costs, after the initial assessment by a 3PAO to address findings by enhancing their systems or processes to meet specific security requirements
• Developing comprehensive documentation and implementing continuous monitoring tools and services
• Annual assessments to maintain certification
• Operational costs, including:
  • Staff training and dedicated personnel
  • Technology and security upgrades to stay compliant with FedRAMP standards and address evolving threats

While the total cost for a CSP to achieve FedRAMP certification can vary significantly, estimates typically start from around $150,000. They can go up to more than $2 million for large or complex deployments. Costs can even exceed $1 million. Additionally, the ongoing annual costs for maintaining FedRAMP compliance can range from $100,000 to $300,000 or more per year.

FedRAMP authorization: Assurance of security beyond the federal government

For many organizations, FedRAMP performs double duty in terms of gaining customers’ trust and confidence. Achieving FedRAMP authorization is a powerful validation of the security of the cloud providers’ service or solution.  Beyond meeting the minimum requirements to provide cloud services or solutions to federal agencies, FedRAMP shows non-government organizations that the provider is serious about security and has validated its efficacy with rigorous reviews and testing.  

Becoming FedRAMP authorized offers cloud service or solution providers a number of other benefits, including:  

• Ability to leverage FedRAMP to meet other agencies’ security assessments and requirements 
• Real-time security visibility
• Savings on cost, time, and resources   
• Uniform risk-based management  

The FedRAMP process takes time and effort, but FedRAMP authorization has proven to be a worthwhile effort for the cloud service and solution providers who have achieved it. 

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